The Royal Australian Air Force has teamed up with international partners and the Starlight Children’s Foundation to grant the wish of a 12-year-old boy.
Angus, from Humpty Doo in the Northern Territory, is receiving ongoing treatment for burns to 60 per cent of his body.
With a passion for planes and aviation, Angus, his family, and his best friend Sam, were treated to a morning of activities at the Exercise Pitch Black RAAF Base Darwin open day.
First stop was the flight simulator tent, where Angus was able to try his hand at flying both the Navy Seahawk and EC-135 helicopters.
Angus was then taken to see the US Air Force (USAF) F-22 Raptor, where he chatted to crew and had some photos taken with the aircraft.
USAF F-22 pilot ‘Holster’ said he enjoyed putting a smile on Angus’ face.
“It was great to chat to Angus and his family. We always appreciate the opportunity to share our passion for aviation and it was especially meaningful to us that he wanted to see the F-22,” Holster said.
Next stop was the RAAF 3 Squadron F-35A and the US Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey, which left Angus equally thrilled.
Angus was then given a special guided tour of an RAAF 37 Squadron C-17A Globemaster III, where he was even given the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of the aircraft and have the controls explained.
Angus’ dad, Nick, said it was a day his son will never forget.
“Angus loves everything about aviation, and for him to be immersed in it like this is a real treat,” he said.
